On this day 27 years ago (12th May, 1993), Malta attained its first away victory in a World Cup qualifier after beating Estonia 1-0 at the Kadriorg Stadium in Tallinn.
Played in front of a crowd of 4,000 spectators, the Maltese team, led by Pippo Psaila and his right-hand man at the time Georgi Deanov, scored what proved to be the winning goal on 16 minutes courtesy of midfielder Kris Laferla. The Valletta midfielder had gone close moments earlier, coming face to face with Estonia goalkeeper Martin Poom after a fine interchange with David Carabott. From the resultant corner, the ball fell to Martin Gregory whose initial shot was blocked only for Carabott to direct a pass to Laferla who took one touch before lifting the ball past the Estonia goalkeeper. Boosted by this opener, Malta remained on top, creating a series of flowing moves and dangerous attacks. Ray Vella was thwarted by a goalline clearance, Joe Brincat’s effort was stopped by Poom and Richard Buhagiar was denied what many described as a clearcut penalty. In the second half, Malta opted for a cautious approach with Estonia seizing the initiative in search of an equaliser only to be kept at bay by the resilient Maltese defence, well-marshalled by goalkeeper David Cluett (late), John Buttigieg, Joe Camilleri and Vella. With five minutes remaining, Cluett distinguished himself with a fine save from Kallaste’s long-range free-kick. Apart from Estonia, the other teams in Group One were Italy, Switzerland, Portugal and Scotland. MALTA FORMATIONDavid Cluett, Joe Brincat, Richard Buhagiar, John Buttigieg, Silvio Vella, Martin Gregory (74 Jesmond Delia), Joe Camilleri, Kris Laferla, Nicky Saliba, Raymond Vella, David Carabott (46 Stefan Sultana).